PR Card Renewal
Renew or replace your PR card if it is expired, lost, or stolen.
Prepared under the legal authority of Atty. George M. Garvida, Barrister & Solicitor
What you need — PR card renewal
General information only. This is not legal advice.
- You are a permanent resident and you are in Canada to apply for the card.
- Photos and identity documents that match the IRCC checklist.
- Days in Canada for the residency obligation. Confirm on IRCC.
What you need — PR travel document (PRTD)
- You are outside Canada and you do not have a valid PR card for a commercial trip back.
- Passport, proof of permanent resident status, and proof you meet the residency obligation.
- The fee shown on the official application page. Confirm on IRCC.
What This Pathway Is
Your permanent resident (PR) card is the official proof of your status when travelling to Canada by commercial carrier. Cards expire every five years. Renewing does not affect your permanent resident status itself — but you need valid proof of status to board a flight to Canada.
To renew, you must show you have met the residency obligation (generally 730 days physically present in Canada within every five-year period, with some exceptions). If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you may need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to return.
Standard renewal processing often takes several weeks to a few months. Apply before travelling if your card is expiring soon.
Are You Likely Qualified?
This is a general guide, not a guarantee of eligibility. Many factors affect actual qualification — a practical next step is to start an assessment or book a free screening with our team.
- You are a permanent resident of Canada and your PR card is expired, expiring soon, lost, or stolen.
- You have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within the last five years (or qualify for an exception).
- You can provide identity documents and photos that meet IRCC specifications.
- You have not lost your permanent resident status through a formal determination or abandonment.
- You apply from inside Canada for renewal, or understand PRTD options if you are outside Canada without a valid card.
Based on what you've read, what would you like to do?